City-wide assessment of urban tree cover and land-cover changes in Edirne using web-based tools

Abstract

Urban trees are essential to various ecosystem functions and make substantial contributions to cities. In this study, we aimed to address the existing knowledge gaps regarding historical and current urban tree cover (UTC) data in Edirne. UTC assessment was performed using a web-based geographic information system (GIS) tool, i-Tree Canopy. This assessment involved the utilisation of high-resolution aerial imagery and the implementation of a random sampling method. The results revealed a decrease of 4.41 % in UTC and an increase of 17.82 % in impervious surfaces from 2005 to 2023. The transition from natural to artificial surfaces highlights potential environmental challenges, such as elevated air temperatures and increased levels of stormwater runoff. The findings provide valuable insights for researchers, landscape managers, and policymakers involved in regional planning, decision-making, and the enhancement of green infrastructure in cities. Understanding UTC changes and trends can improve the effectiveness of landscape and urban planning strategies in response to the challenges of the 21st century.

Keywords

• Random sampling
• Urban tree cover
• i-Tree Canopy
• Urban tree cover change
• Edirne